The ICAC investigated allegations that, during the lead up to the 2011 NSW state election, certain NSW Liberal Party candidates and others solicited and received political donations which were not declared as required by the Election Funding, Expenditure and Disclosures Act 1981. The allegations included that some of these political donations were made by and received from prohibited donors (property developers) and some exceeded the applicable caps on political donations. The Commission also examined whether in the lead up to the 2011 NSW state election members or associates of the NSW Liberal Party used, or attempted to use, the Free Enterprise Foundation as a means of disguising the true identity of donors and evading the prohibition on receiving political donations from property developers.

Further, the Commission examined whether certain members of Parliament used, or attempted to use, their power and influence to improperly benefit Buildev Pty Ltd in respect of a proposed development of a coal terminal at the Port of Newcastle.

In its report on the investigation, released on 30 August 2016, the Commission makes findings of fact against various individuals, one finding of serious corrupt conduct against Joseph Tripodi, and is of the opinion that the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) should be obtained with respect to the prosecution of seven individuals for various offences.

As there are common elements to this investigation and Operation Credo, the evidence taken in each operation is taken as evidence in both operations. The Operation Credo report was made public on 3 August 2017. For information about Operation Credo, visit this page.

Investigation reports

Investigation into NSW Liberal Party electoral funding for the 2011 state election campaign and other matters (Operation Spicer)